Thermodynamics Forum

Answer: The thermal efficiency of a Rankine Cycle is nothing but the ratio of net work output to the heat input into the boiler.

η = net work output/heat input into the boiler

η = Wnet/Qin

Net work output is given by,

Wnet = Qin-Qout

Also,

Net work can also be calculated by,

Wnet = Wturbine - Wpump

The overall efficiency of the Rankine cycle is given by,

η = power available at the generator terminals/rate of energy released by combustion       of fuels.

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